Those of you attending Hershey this year no doubt spotted this 1920 Pierce-Arrow Model 48 in the Hyman tent (next to the Krueger Special, I might add). Known as the “Hope Diamond of Antique Cars,” a year ago it sold at RM’s London auction, leading to its return to the United States after a 20-year European vacation. In person, it was striking, with its nickel-plated fenders and golden body; in the photos on the ad listing, we can see the extent to which the unnamed customizer went inside and under the hood as well. From the seller’s description:

The Model 48 was powered by a T-head inline six-cylinder engine of 525 cubic inches with a 4-speed transmission on a 142 wheelbase chassis. It was a dramatically designed and exclusive automobile when it left Pierce-Arrow’s Buffalo, New York, factory destined for salt-mining entrepreneur Emerson Carey in Hutchinson, Kansas; it was – if the word applies – perfected by a subsequent owner in Great Bend, Kansas, who began in 1945 to create what can only be described as jewelry. Every one of the Pierce-Arrow’s finely cast aluminum body panels has been meticulously prepared and plated in 23-karat gold; the fenders and hood in bright nickel. The engine and chassis received the same treatment. The wood spoke wheels are gold leaf. The interior trim is silver-plated set off by black leather upholstery. Its creator described it as the Hope Diamond of antique cars and it is nothing less – although it might better be described as touched by King Midas. Despite the 28 years its creator lavished on its presentation and perfection, it remained unknown — a cherished gem hidden from public view for its creator’s personal gratification until it was finally displayed in 1974 by its next owner in the lobby of the Englewood (Colorado) Bank. Subsequently, it again retreated into obscurity, including most recent long-term ownership in Europe. It has probably only four owners from new as well as little use and has been preserved in remarkable condition, with a patina that is simply unmatched. The soft glow of its golden body and the unique mellow texture of the nickel plating blend richly in tones which not even the most artfully conceived and applied paint finish can duplicate. The interior appointments silk window curtains and upholstery are in excellent condition.

That reminds me of the 1924 Pierce-Arrow touring car that Bert Lobberegt had. Iirc it still had its original light green paint, and the aluminum body and fenders were pieced together and welded into a very stout whole. He said that although it had a lot of miles on it (100k iirc), the engine was still in good shape and didn’t need to be rebuilt.

I also remember Bert’s 1924 Pierce-Arrow and have a 1969 magazine which talks about his and Georgie’s round trip excusion to New York. I am compiling a history of our family and was wondering if you have any information in print or verbal stories about Bert or other family members I might add to the work?

I agree with Kit. It looked like gold leaf application in square patches. From a distance it looks impressive but the patches are clearly seen standing beside it. It begs to be criticized for outlandishness but, then, I don’t have to like every car that is customized so I’ll leave it to those who do like it.

I remember when this car was first ‘restored’ back in early ’70s. Wealthy owner hired 3 hobos to do all of the work. They got to ride through town in it just once after it was finished. Workers died shortly after due to exposure to harsh plating chemicals. Old memory.

This Car used to be in Jersey Uk,it was in my friends showroom for at least 6months.what looks we got driving it around the island,wooden wheels and no front brakes,reminded me of the munsters car with the curtains and old style bodywork